Recent Fact Sheets

Presenter: Sophie Thomson, 16/07/2011

Series 22 Episode 23

Gardening is a healthy and fun activity that allows kids to learn about science and nature, whilst being creative and believe it or not, it's possible for your kids to catch the gardening bug indoors. There are lots of jobs that can turn little thumbs green on a cold winter's day and they're lots of fun too.

Window boxes and indoor plants can get a bad rap and are thought of as a bit passe but by arranging and planting a selection of small plants, your children can create their own little landscapes.This is a great activity to do with your children or grandchildren, but depending on their age, you'll obviously need to give them some supervision.

Materials

window boxes or bowls

potting mix

miniature plants/ tube stock (the variety depends on whether the pot is inside or out) Note: choose plants that don't grow very large, although some plants will almost become bonsaied planted this way

found objects such as bottle tops, toys, stones etc

children's gardening gloves

Method

Fill the pots with potting mixture and plant the little plants as if you are re-creating a landscape, but in miniature.

By incorporating found objects Sophie's children created a desert with a meerkat, a gnome garden and a fairy garden for her girls, so let your children or grandchildren's imaginations go wild.

Please note: It is important to follow the safety instructions on potting mix and soil packs - particularly where children are concerned, as they may be more vulnerable to hazards

Information contained in this fact sheet is a summary of material included in the program. If further information is required, please contact your local nursery or garden centre.

Copyright Restrictions: This fact sheet is for private and domestic information purposes only. It may not be copied, reproduced, sold or used for any other purpose without the express permission of the ABC.